KATHMANDU, Dec 12: The 11th General Convention of the CPN-UML is set to open on Saturday, with preparations in their final stages. The venue, a 108-ropani ground of Nepal Trust in Sallaghari, Bhaktapur, is almost ready to host the event from December 13–15.
Delegates from across the country are actively inspecting the site, attending meetings at party offices and producing videos and social media content ahead of the inauguration. Rajendra Gautam, head of UML’s Publicity Department, said that nearly all delegates from across the country have now arrived in Kathmandu for Saturday’s event.
The main stage is being built in a Malla-era pagoda style to highlight Bhaktapur and the valley’s historic and cultural heritage, of the nearby Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stage’s Himalayan-inspired flanks have already attracted crowds of local residents and party workers.
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Kiran Thapa, UML Bhaktapur vice-chair and Bagmati Province Health Minister, said that work continues day and night on the main stage, temporary structures and other essential facilities. The core stage structure is nearly complete, while around 30 temporary toilets, entrance gates, and other installations are in the final phase.
Designed to give speakers the impression of addressing the audience from the steps of Changunarayan Temple, the stage will feature Newar-inspired art and cultural motifs. Separate gates are being constructed for VIPs, the general public, and tableau displays scheduled for the opening day.
Preparations aim to accommodate up to 300,000 attendees. About 25,000 chairs will be placed in the main viewing area, and top party leaders along with foreign diplomatic representatives are expected to attend. UML Politburo member Mahesh Basnet said that 10,000 volunteers from the National Volunteers network and other organizations—including 550 in uniform—will ensure a grand and orderly event.
Party Chairman KP Sharma Oli is scheduled to inaugurate the convention on December 13 at noon, with participants approaching the venue via massive rallies from the east and west.
Bhaktapur District Chairman Bachan Deuja confirmed that a door-to-door invitation campaign has reached all four municipalities, distributing around 22,000 invitation letters, with banners and party flags already displayed, and public announcements (miking) starting tomorrow.
On the opening day, cultural processions from all wards of Bhaktapur will enter the venue, with the party expecting about 25,000 local participants.
